Essex school summer holidays could be one week earlier in 2029

“There are pros and cons to moving school holiday dates,” Pepe Di’Iasio, the general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL), said.

“It is possible that shifting the start of the summer holiday a week earlier could mean cheaper holiday deals for families – though it is likely that prices would rise if other areas follow suit.”

Di’Iasio called on the government “to reach an agreement with holiday companies to curb the excessively high prices which are charged during school holiday periods”.

Reform county councillor Keiron McGill told a full council meeting about the fines parents received if they took their children out of school unauthorised for five days in a 10-week period.

“Kids get far more out of a week seeing the world than grimly hanging on to 100% attendance,” he said.

He called on the council to allow five days of absences for children with over 95% school attendance.

Journet responded that would not be possible.

An Essex County Council spokesperson said the authority would “explore whether a change to the traditional pattern of the calendar is feasible”.

They added: “For example, whether starting the summer holiday period one week earlier than normal could enable parents to secure a family holiday at a more affordable price.

“No decisions have yet been made in this regard. If any substantial change to the usual arrangements is proposed, we will consult with relevant stakeholders, including schools and parents.”

The consultation is expected to begin in January.